Get ready for a blockbuster showdown in Bloemfontein, where the Free State Cheetahs and the Pumas clash in the highly-anticipated Currie Cup final on Saturday.
Defending champions, the Pumas are determined to defend their crown against the Free Staters, who secured home advantage with a resounding 39-10 victory over the Vodacom Bulls in the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, Jimmy Stonehouse’s troops earned their spot in the decider with a hard-fought 26-20 win against the Sharks in Durban.
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Both teams have shown their quality and varied gameplay throughout the tournament. The Cheetahs and Pumas started as early favourites, dominating the initial stages. However, their consistency wavered towards the end of the league phase.
Nonetheless, Hawies Fourie’s charges finished at the top of the standings, while the men from Mpumalanga secured a commendable third place.
As underdogs in the semi-finals, both teams delivered statement performances. The Cheetahs stunned a star-studded Bulls side, while, Stonehouse’s men controlled the game against the Sharks, proving their mettle as true contenders.
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Now, these two determined outfits will face off in the final, with the Cheetahs holding the edge on their home turf. However, the hosts must remain cautious of the Pumas, who triumphed in last year’s semi-final on Free State soil.
During the regular season, the Cheetahs won nine out of 14 matches, suffering four losses and securing one draw. On the other hand, the Pumas claimed eight victories with six defeats. It’s worth noting that the Cheetahs avenged an early-season 61-21 thrashing by the Pumas with a 29-14 round 13 win in Nelspruit.
As the teams prepare to battle for glory, will it be the Cheetahs who rise to the occasion and claim a seventh Currie Cup title? Or can the Pumas defy expectations once again and retain their crown?
Photo: Dirk Kotze/Gallo Images